League chair Mon Segismundo says the PBA is in "serious discussion" with at least two applicants. Jerome Ascano

OUTSIDE of Blackwater Sports, two more companies have shown interest in acquiring a PBA franchise, according to league chairman Ramon Segismundo.

Seguismundo declined to name the two other prospective applicants, but said the league is now in the process of evaluating their financial capacity and "ability to contribute to the PBA value."

Two prospects, he added, are now in "serious discussion" with league officials.

“Of course, due diligence is very important, then, brand reputation, contribution to PBA value, and financial muscle to maintain a championship-caliber team for the long term,” said Segismundo, who is also the board of governor of Meralco.

Seguismundo said attracting serious prospects is good for the long-term well-being of the league, which is aggressively pursuing expansion which the league chairman hopes to happen over the next two, three years.

“After San Mig and NLEX’s (championship) win last night (Wednesday), prospective PBA team owners are showing great interest. There are at least two in serious discussion,” Segismundo bared to Spin.ph on Thursday.

Segismundo was referring to the Mixers’ 4-2 title conquest of the Philippine Cup and the Road Warriors’ D-League Aspirants Cup Finals sweep of Big Chill.

“This is very good news for PBA fans, our basketball nation, and our best basketball players who will now be afforded more opportunities,” he added.

Blackwater Sports team owner Dioceldo Sy is set to meet with commissioner Chito Salud, media bureau chief Willy Marcial and Seguismundo on Thursday night for what should be 'the final defense of the company’s application’ in the league.

Continue reading below ↓

Sy has high hopes that after the meeting, Blackwater will be admitted as the league’s 11th member ballclub as it looks forward to joining the PBA for its 2015 season which kicks off this October.